New York Mets’ Edwin Díaz Faces Suspension After 5-2 Victory Over Cubs
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Luis Severino delivered a masterful performance on the mound, hurling six shutout innings, while Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo powered the offense with back-to-back home runs, leading the New York Mets to a 5-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Sunday night. However, the triumph was overshadowed by the dramatic ejection of closer Edwin Díaz in the ninth inning.
Díaz was called upon to secure the win but was ejected before throwing a single pitch after umpires discovered a foreign substance on his right hand and glove. According to Major League Baseball regulations, using illegal foreign substances can result in a 10-game suspension, which is what transpired for Diaz after the game.
Díaz explained that his pre-pitch routine involves a combination of rosin and sweat on his hand, which he also rubs in the dirt. “That’s what I was explaining to them, but they said it was too much stick,” Díaz remarked, expressing his surprise at the ejection.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged the umpires’ decision, stating, “They thought he crossed the line there. Obviously, the rules are the rules, and they made the decision to throw him out.” Third-base umpire and crew chief Vic Carapazza emphasized in a post-game pool report that it “definitely wasn’t rosin and sweat” on Díaz’s hand, describing the substance as “very sticky.”
Despite the controversy, Severino (5-2) was dominant, striking out a season-high 10 batters while allowing just three hits. The Mets’ offense was ignited by Lindor and Nimmo’s back-to-back homers, with Mark Vientos adding a solo shot to further cushion the lead. The Mets have now won 10 of their last 13 games, improving their record to 13-6 in June.
Looking ahead, the Mets have a day off on Monday before welcoming the New York Yankees to Citi Field for a highly anticipated crosstown matchup. Left-hander David Peterson (3-0, 3.97 ERA) will take the mound against Yankees ace Gerrit Cole (0-0, 4.50 ERA) on Tuesday night.
The Mets’ victory against the Cubs showcased their pitching prowess and offensive firepower, setting the stage for an exciting series against their city rivals, even as the team navigates the fallout from Díaz’s ejection.
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